Voice Disorders

A voice disorder is typically characterized by a hoarse voice or frequent laryngitis (loss of voice). Sometimes the voice sounds too loud or too soft, too high (squeaky), or too low (deep/gravely) or nasal. Often extra effort is required to produce voice. Misuse or abuse of the voice can lead to chronic hoarseness and result in vocal nodules, which are callus-like growths on the vocal folds. Referral to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) physician is always recommended before a speech/voice evaluation.

Vocal hoarseness is often a result of:

Allergies

Reflux

Vocal misuse

Vocal abuse

Sources of vocal abuse

Shouting or screaming

Speaking with excessive force or “pushing”

Talking too much

Constant throat-clearing or coughing

Straining the voice to imitate noises like a car and plane engines, sirens, and screeching brakes

Sources of vocal misuse

Speaking too loudly

Speaking too high- or low-pitched

Talking “over” background noise

Prolonged duration of talking

How you can help reduce vocal abuse and misuse

Identify instances of vocal abuse and misuse.

Discourage loud, effortful speaking.

Suggest substitutes for voice use.

Discourage making non-speech noises.

Eliminate sources of background noise.

Reduce the amount of talking.

Reward the use of good vocal habits.

Be a good model.

See your pediatrician and/or ENT physician for a medical consultation.